Psychiatrists in 77041

Photo of Lynda Parker - Dr Lynda Parker - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr Lynda Parker - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
Dr. Lynda Parker is a psychiatrist currently practicing at Anew Era TMS and Psychiatry of Austin in Austin, TX. She also offers virtual consultations.
(281) 677-3387 View (281) 677-3387
Photo of Alina Naik - Alina Naik - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC
Alina Naik - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Alina Naik, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, has worked in a variety of health settings, including acute care, psychiatry and neurology. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin, with a certificate in Public Health. She then received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, specializing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Alina is passionate about equity and treats every client with empathy and understanding. Her approach to treatment utilizes culturally-competent, patient-centered care to promote optimal healing.
Alina Naik, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, has worked in a variety of health settings, including acute care, psychiatry and neurology. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Austin, with a certificate in Public Health. She then received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, specializing as a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Alina is passionate about equity and treats every client with empathy and understanding. Her approach to treatment utilizes culturally-competent, patient-centered care to promote optimal healing.
(832) 536-6494 View (832) 536-6494

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Becky Spencer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNPBC, IBCLC, PMH-C
Becky Spencer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNPBC, IBCLC, PMH-C
Online Only
Hello, I am Becky Spencer. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, a lactation consultant, and perinatal mental health specialist. Are you planning for pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, and you either just aren't feeling "right" or have a history of mental health challenges? Have other healthcare providers told you that you can't receive treatment for mental health while pregnant and breastfeeding? Is the transition to parenthood overwhelming? You are not alone, and treatment can help.
Hello, I am Becky Spencer. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, a lactation consultant, and perinatal mental health specialist. Are you planning for pregnancy, currently pregnant, or postpartum, and you either just aren't feeling "right" or have a history of mental health challenges? Have other healthcare providers told you that you can't receive treatment for mental health while pregnant and breastfeeding? Is the transition to parenthood overwhelming? You are not alone, and treatment can help.
(972) 736-9705 View (972) 736-9705
Photo of Megha Chadha, Psychiatrist, MD
Megha Chadha
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Chadha has always been fascinated by how the brain works. Becoming a psychiatrist offered her an opportunity to learn more about the complexities of the human mind, while allowing her to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. She works with patients who suffer from mood disorders, specifically treatment-resistant depression, postpartum mental health, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and other anxiety disorders. As an immigrant in this country, she has a unique understanding of the cultural and other challenging issues that affect the mental health of immigrants and other minority communities.
Dr. Chadha has always been fascinated by how the brain works. Becoming a psychiatrist offered her an opportunity to learn more about the complexities of the human mind, while allowing her to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. She works with patients who suffer from mood disorders, specifically treatment-resistant depression, postpartum mental health, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and other anxiety disorders. As an immigrant in this country, she has a unique understanding of the cultural and other challenging issues that affect the mental health of immigrants and other minority communities.
(737) 258-2304 View (737) 258-2304
Photo of Kimberly Justice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Justice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a current board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a retired United States Air Force combat veteran. My experience in emergency and behavioral health nursing, coupled with my military service, allows me to have a unique understanding of the challenges and experiences faced by many individuals. While my focus spans across many disorders, I specialize in medication management and short-term therapy for anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
I am a current board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am also a retired United States Air Force combat veteran. My experience in emergency and behavioral health nursing, coupled with my military service, allows me to have a unique understanding of the challenges and experiences faced by many individuals. While my focus spans across many disorders, I specialize in medication management and short-term therapy for anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
(915) 995-5612 View (915) 995-5612
Photo of Francisca Nebe - Access Healthcare Providers , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, BC
Access Healthcare Providers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, BC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New patient in TX, OR, CO, WA, VT, NM, VA, and FL . Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or any other mental health conditions?, Welcome to Access Healthcare Providers where you will be heard, respected and treated with compassion in a safe environment. Dr. Francisca Nebe is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience in various healthcare field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, and other mental health conditions.
Accepting New patient in TX, OR, CO, WA, VT, NM, VA, and FL . Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or any other mental health conditions?, Welcome to Access Healthcare Providers where you will be heard, respected and treated with compassion in a safe environment. Dr. Francisca Nebe is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 14 years of experience in various healthcare field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, and other mental health conditions.
(469) 393-7835 View (469) 393-7835
Photo of Demetria Jefferson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Demetria Jefferson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77054
I have a total of 22 years of nursing experience as a registered nurse in multiple specialties, and I committed to improving patient outcomes and advocating for my patients to improve their overall physical and mental health. My ideal client is one that is ready to make the first and or another step towards mental health and wellness. I want to partner with clients that have ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders to develop an individualized plan of care that will meet the clients' needs and improve their functionality and quality of life.
I have a total of 22 years of nursing experience as a registered nurse in multiple specialties, and I committed to improving patient outcomes and advocating for my patients to improve their overall physical and mental health. My ideal client is one that is ready to make the first and or another step towards mental health and wellness. I want to partner with clients that have ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders to develop an individualized plan of care that will meet the clients' needs and improve their functionality and quality of life.
(346) 576-5900 View (346) 576-5900
Photo of Rita Uduma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rita Uduma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am here to work with you to address any of your mental health needs. I use a holistic approach to providing mental health care. The most theoretical approaches I use are the cognitive, behavioral, and humanistic approaches.
I'm a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am here to work with you to address any of your mental health needs. I use a holistic approach to providing mental health care. The most theoretical approaches I use are the cognitive, behavioral, and humanistic approaches.
(346) 534-5101 View (346) 534-5101
Photo of Martha Akinable, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, APRN, PMHNP-B
Martha Akinable
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, APRN, PMHNP-B
Houston, TX 77036
As a mental health specialist, I tailor treatment plans for diverse age groups, addressing conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My focus extends to managing stress, trauma, addiction, and navigating major life changes. I strive to stabilize mental health and overall well-being through personalized interventions, fostering resilience and empowerment in each client's journey toward recovery.
As a mental health specialist, I tailor treatment plans for diverse age groups, addressing conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My focus extends to managing stress, trauma, addiction, and navigating major life changes. I strive to stabilize mental health and overall well-being through personalized interventions, fostering resilience and empowerment in each client's journey toward recovery.
(959) 210-6800 View (959) 210-6800
Photo of Cornelia Alinnor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cornelia Alinnor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Cornelia Alinnor but I go by Connie. I am married with two daughters, and I enjoy swimming. I have been practicing as a PMHNP for 6 years and have worked in 5 acute psychiatric hospitals. I have a lot of experience in inpatient and outpatient treatment, and PHP and IOP programs. I earned my BSN from Oklahoma Baptist University in 2011 and my MSN/PMHNP from Walden University in 2019. I specialize in diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
I am Cornelia Alinnor but I go by Connie. I am married with two daughters, and I enjoy swimming. I have been practicing as a PMHNP for 6 years and have worked in 5 acute psychiatric hospitals. I have a lot of experience in inpatient and outpatient treatment, and PHP and IOP programs. I earned my BSN from Oklahoma Baptist University in 2011 and my MSN/PMHNP from Walden University in 2019. I specialize in diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and substance use disorder.
(346) 595-2923 View (346) 595-2923
Photo of Joshua Freedman - HealthPiper, Psychiatrist
HealthPiper
Psychiatrist
Spring, TX 77380
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
healthPiper was created by top clinicians to be treatment that we would trust with our families. There is no treatment that compares: we average 4.98 on reviews.io. We guarantee appointments that are within 2 days, and often it is faster. Every clinician is hand-picked for top-training, kindness, and expertise, and responds to clients 365 days a year. People describe us better than anything they imagined existed, and they tell their family and friends. Most of our clients come by word of mouth. If you use insurance, it will automatically be applied for your medications, which you can buy from any pharmacy you choose.
(936) 251-4285 View (936) 251-4285
Photo of Anabel Winiecki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Anabel Winiecki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
I am Anabel Winiecki, and I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, trained to treat behavioral and mental health across the lifespan. I graduated with my master's in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. My past experiences in education and work have equipped me to work well with diverse populations, be culturally competent, and have a wide array of training across specialties. With specialties in the areas of addiction, abuse, trauma, as well as general mental and behavioral health, we will work together to help meet your individualized needs.
I am Anabel Winiecki, and I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, trained to treat behavioral and mental health across the lifespan. I graduated with my master's in nursing from the University of Texas at Austin. My past experiences in education and work have equipped me to work well with diverse populations, be culturally competent, and have a wide array of training across specialties. With specialties in the areas of addiction, abuse, trauma, as well as general mental and behavioral health, we will work together to help meet your individualized needs.
(469) 423-8660 View (469) 423-8660
Photo of Peter Berndt - Peter Berndt, MD PA, Psychiatrist, MD, BSc
Peter Berndt, MD PA
Psychiatrist, MD, BSc
The Woodlands, TX 77382
You may be reading this because you want to do something about the stress, anxiety or general unhappiness in your life. Perhaps the medications that you were prescribed are not working. Or you have had psychotherapy but it did not work out and you want just someone who will listen. Many therapists offer such help. Choose who you believe best fits your needs and start by making contact with whomever you choose. And do it soon. There is no need to suffer any longer. Most of us offer a free initial consultation by phone. Make use of that offer. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. My office is also just a phone call away.
You may be reading this because you want to do something about the stress, anxiety or general unhappiness in your life. Perhaps the medications that you were prescribed are not working. Or you have had psychotherapy but it did not work out and you want just someone who will listen. Many therapists offer such help. Choose who you believe best fits your needs and start by making contact with whomever you choose. And do it soon. There is no need to suffer any longer. Most of us offer a free initial consultation by phone. Make use of that offer. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. My office is also just a phone call away.
(866) 995-7910 View (866) 995-7910
Photo of Ifeoma Maureen Ukachukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , FNP-BC, PMHNP
Ifeoma Maureen Ukachukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, , FNP-BC, PMHNP
Katy, TX 77494
Have you found yourself overwhelmed after taking care of everything and everyone else’s needs instead of your own? Do you feel frustrated trying to balance your life and relationships with work and other important obligations? Have you begun to feel that nothing you do is ever good enough? Has this imbalance ever started to deprive you of sleep, anxiety, depression, or even overuse of alcohol and substances? If so, you are not alone and I can help. You will receive a comfortable empathetic session where we will work together to find healthy options to address your concerns.
Have you found yourself overwhelmed after taking care of everything and everyone else’s needs instead of your own? Do you feel frustrated trying to balance your life and relationships with work and other important obligations? Have you begun to feel that nothing you do is ever good enough? Has this imbalance ever started to deprive you of sleep, anxiety, depression, or even overuse of alcohol and substances? If so, you are not alone and I can help. You will receive a comfortable empathetic session where we will work together to find healthy options to address your concerns.
(346) 485-4086 View (346) 485-4086
Photo of Gary Michael Bernard, Psychiatrist, MD
Gary Michael Bernard
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Performance, Wellness, Concierge, Occupational
Performance, Wellness, Concierge, Occupational
(469) 991-3306 View (469) 991-3306
Photo of Dayna Kinney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Dayna Kinney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster when you're managing anxiety, depression, OCD, or mood disorders—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Dayna Kinney, a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes real progress starts with feeling heard, understood, and supported. I specialize in evidence-based medication management and therapy-informed care, creating personalized treatment plans that fit your life. Whether you’re facing a major transition or struggling with long-term challenges, I’m here to help you feel better, regain balance, and take back control of your mental health.
(713) 360-0316 View (713) 360-0316
Photo of Sandrine Motokwa Ntsang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Sandrine Motokwa Ntsang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Houston, TX 77070
Sandrine Motokwa is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She received her MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health NP from Walden University in January 2023. She worked as an intensive care unit nurse for three years before obtaining her master's degree. She obtained her BSN in nursing in 2010 in Varese, Italy, and worked as a nurse in many specialties, including neurosurgery, psychiatry, geriatric, home health, and wound care.
Sandrine Motokwa is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Texas who has been practicing since 2022. She received her MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health NP from Walden University in January 2023. She worked as an intensive care unit nurse for three years before obtaining her master's degree. She obtained her BSN in nursing in 2010 in Varese, Italy, and worked as a nurse in many specialties, including neurosurgery, psychiatry, geriatric, home health, and wound care.
(346) 521-5008 View (346) 521-5008
Photo of Jibril Yakubu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jibril Yakubu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
Facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can feel overwhelming and isolating. I'm Jibril Yakubu, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience helping adults 18 and over navigate their mental health journey. My passion for psychiatry began when I witnessed firsthand the profound transformations individuals can achieve with the right support and treatment. I believe in truly listening to your needs and concerns, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we'll work toward improving your mental well-being and quality of life.
(832) 295-3716 View (832) 295-3716
Photo of Obianuju Okafor - Clear-MindHealthcare PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Clear-MindHealthcare PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Houston, TX 77074
Obianuju Okafor is a compassionate, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to providing high-quality care for individuals of all ages. With over nine years of nursing experience, she treats conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Obianuju offers medication management, supportive therapy, and personalized care plans. She is passionate about mental health advocacy and creates a safe, welcoming space where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered in their mental health journey.
Obianuju Okafor is a compassionate, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to providing high-quality care for individuals of all ages. With over nine years of nursing experience, she treats conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Obianuju offers medication management, supportive therapy, and personalized care plans. She is passionate about mental health advocacy and creates a safe, welcoming space where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered in their mental health journey.
(713) 391-8315 View (713) 391-8315
Photo of Dr. Megan Tusken, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Megan Tusken
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Megan Tusken is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her undergraduate degree from Brown University and her Medical Doctor degree at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Tusken completed residency training in general psychiatry at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Tusken provides evidence-based, patient-centered care and considers a trusting doctor-patient relationship integral to helping her patients achieve their treatment goals.
Dr. Megan Tusken is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her undergraduate degree from Brown University and her Medical Doctor degree at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Tusken completed residency training in general psychiatry at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Tusken provides evidence-based, patient-centered care and considers a trusting doctor-patient relationship integral to helping her patients achieve their treatment goals.
(972) 573-7244 View (972) 573-7244

See more therapy options for 77041

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 77041

< 10

Psychiatrists in 77041 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Chronic Pain
100% Life Coaching
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BHS | Behavioral Health Systems
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 77041 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 77041?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.